Bird Feeders and Rats: What You Need to Know
Bird feeders are very popular in King County and provide many hours of enjoyment for people who love to watch birds. However, if you feed birds expect to see increased rat numbers around your home.

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Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS): Facts, brochure and surveillance in King CountyHantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) was first reported in the United States in the Southwest in 1993. The Sin Nombre virus is the main cause of HPS reported in the U.S., but other hantaviruses cause similar illnesses in other countries. In the U.S., the deer mouse is the main reservoir of the virus. Other wild rodents can also be carriers. Infected rodents shed the virus in their urine, saliva, and droppings, but do not show any signs of illness. Illness in humans results from inhalation of aerosolized virus-containing rodent excreta. The disease is not spread person-to-person.

Rodent control after a disaster, CDCSurviving rodents after a disaster often relocate to new areas in search of food, water, and shelter. Learn tips on how to remove food sources, water, and items that provide shelter for rodents.